Let’s start with a few questions to ask yourself, with examples of answers below:
Q: What media do you want to explore?
A: Media I want to explore are drawing, painting, photography and video.
Q: What space do you need to explore this media?
A: I have a space to paint and draw (from life and from photos). I also have a space where I can control the lighting for photo and video.
Q: What equipment do you need?
A: I am blessed to have acrylic, gouache and oil paints, brushes and canvas. I have pencils, charcoal and paper. I bought some of them and some people were giving away and I snagged them (one person’s trash is another’s treasure). I also have two photography lights so I can control lighting, which makes a huge difference with photography. I have a tripod for my phone to take video and a ring light.
Q: What mindset do you need?
I am starting out with the mindset of a student, and at the same time, a master. I fall on my face quite a bit, but nothing ventured, nothing gained.
The Space and/or the Studio
On this page, you can learn about parts of my art studio, and get some ideas on developing your own. There is no need for a full-blown studio if it’s not in the budget yet, a quiet corner or outdoors will also do. The important thing is to create space to work.
In My Studio:
~ Old books and books that are rare
~ Trinkets and talismans
~ Blank walls and space
~ Easels, canvas, paper, boards and art tools
Questions for Your Studio:
~ How will you work most of the time: sitting or standing?
~ What art materials do you need within arm’s reach?
~ What sustinence do you require while working, physical (food or drink) or mental (books, images, background music, and/or a place to rest)?
~ How will you store finished pieces?
~ What extra materials will you use which are not in the final piece?
~ How will you take breaks: where and why?
~ What are three goals for your studio?